Nathan Schall is delighted to have signed for his home-town Manchester Giants after following the team in its original incarnation as a child.

The athletic 6ft 5ins forward teams up again with his former Manchester Magic coach Jeff Jones as the resurrected Giants prepare for their first season back in the British Basketball League since 2002 under the guidance of the veteran play-caller.

“Signing for Giants is a massive thing, and having a couple of pre-season friendlies is great," he said. "But I do think it will be when we play our first BBL game against the Lions that it will start to feel real!

"I watched the Giants play as a child, so it’s an added bonus to show some loyalty to the franchise, to pull on that Giants jersey and be part of its resurrection.”

Schall, who played for MK Lions and Cheshire Jets after leaving Magic a couple of season ago, revealed he had interest from Newcastle Eagles and the Jets in an interview with ukamericansportsfans.com - but said joining a largely Mancunian squad at the Giants was too good to resist.

“I messaged them (Newcastle) a while ago,” said Schall, “but Fab (Flournoy) was in the States though. When he got back however he called me.

“The offer was good, but I felt Manchester was the best choice for me.”

Giants have added former Magic players Adam Slater and Jack Minister to the six signings they announced on Monday.